Productivity

Hone in on the tasks that matter to you, and ditch the ones that don’t. This is how you get things done. Much like compound interest makes a small investment grow over time, slight productivity improvements spread over a career can set you apart from your colleagues. 

Think carefully about what you’re working on, because productivity without purpose is futile. As much as possible, concentrate on work that you enjoy, and delegate unwanted tasks to people who would enjoy them. Surrounding yourself with upbeat and efficient colleagues can drive success. Above all else, work hard. 

“I try to prioritize in a way that generates momentum.”

Write lists of short and long-term goals. Build momentum by bookending your day with projects you can make headway on. Be bold about saying no to projects and about zipping through menial tasks like email. When you must go to meetings, plan them for 15-minute or 2-hour increments in the afternoon. Honor your time. “The right goal is to allocate your year optimally, not your day.”

“Try to be around smart, productive, happy and positive people [who] don’t belittle your ambitions.”

Find your ideal nutrition, sleep and exercise regimens by trial and error. Sleep is crucial for productivity. Try using tools like the Emfit QS+Active sleep tracker, Chili Pad mattress topper and a full-spectrum LED light in the morning to feel well-rested. Lifting weights three times a week can help, as well as watching what you eat. Sam Altman, for example, drinks 200 milligrams of espresso after waking up and after eating lunch and takes methyl B-12, omega-3, iron and vitamin D-3 to supplement his vegetarian diet. 

“Productivity in the wrong direction isn’t worth anything at all. Think more about what to work on.”

A subdued, comfortable workspace and custom software for repeated menial tasks may keep you focused. If you feel unmotivated, try waiting for the feeling to pass. Over-committing could be useful, because, as Altman says, he can “generally get done what I take on, and if I have a little bit too much to do it makes me more efficient at everything, which is a way to train to avoid distractions.” Productivity shouldn’t come at the expense of spending time with loved ones or doing what makes you happy. Be thoughtful about your time.